The BARF Model, A Raw Dog Food Diet

Did you know that dogs are direct descendants of wolves, therefore, are naturally carnivores?

Yeap, they share 99.8% of the same DNA makeup! Like wolves, dogs have sharp teeth and strong jaws intended for ripping, crushing, and tearing their food apart. For this reason, they should be eating a diet consisting of predominantly meat and vegetables, like how they would in the wild.

Although canines have evolved over the years with many sizes and breeds, dog’s internal makeup is still the same as their ancestors from thousands of years ago! Dogs no longer need to hunt for their food, but that does not mean their needs have changed. Feeding a biologically appropriate diet will allow them to benefit tremendously!

Raw Diet For Dogs

There are two known raw diet plans for dogs which are the PREY Model Diet and the B.A.R.F. Model Diet. These raw diets for dogs consist of raw meat such as chicken, turkey, lamb, beef, etc.

Some people say that feeding a raw diet for dogs is dangerous because of bacteria like Salmonella, E.coli, and Listeria in raw meat. However, these bacterias do little to no harm to dogs because of their biological makeup.

Dogs who have a healthy immune system are at little risk of getting sick when consuming BARF dog food.

At Cali Raw, we also practice HPP. A kill-step which makes raw feeding safe without destroying the nutrition raw feeding has to offer.

What Is A BARF Diet For Dogs?

The BARF Model Diet stands for ‘Biologically Appropriate Raw Food’ and ‘Bones And Raw Food’. It is a natural raw diet consisting of about 80% raw meat, 10% bones& organs, and 10% vegetables. The BARF diet for dogs mimics the diet of their wild ancestors and is the most nutritionally beneficial meal for dogs. Similarly to how we benefit the most from a natural fresh diet.

Raw dog food will improve your dog’s health and lengthen their lifespan because it gives them the right nutrition!

What Are The Benefits Of A BARF Diet?

BARF dog food will give your dog amazing benefits that you'll love! Since they are absorbing all that nutritious goodness your dog's internal and external health will soar.

The top 10 benefits of the BARF diet for dogs that raw feeders will rave about is:

• Stool Improvement
• Skin & Coat Improvement
• Allergy Relief
• Improved Oral Health
• Increase Energy
• Less Inflammation
• Weight Management
• Improved Digestion
• Reduced Risk Of Disease
• Fewer Vet Visits

Choosing The Best BARF Dog Food

Feeding your dog raw food is great! Unlike kibble, raw diet for dogs will provide the necessary to live a healthy life. However, not all raw food is equal.

The Best Raw Dog Food Will Have:

Lean Muscle Meat

Lean muscle meats have high protein and provide all the amino acids your dog needs. These meats will also help your dog maintain their weight at a healthy level.

Healthy Fats

Though you should opt for leaner muscles with less fat, your dog´s raw diet should also have healthy fat. Oils from salmon are considered a healthy fat and provide great benefits to your dog´s health.

Organ and Bone Content

Organ meat provides additional vitamins and minerals that lean muscle meats lack. Also, the right amount of bone content will give your dog the calcium and other minerals they need.

Low Carbohydrate Content

Dogs can absorb carbohydrates but a high amount of carbohydrates is taxing on their digestive system. Instead, opting for low carbs such as ground vegetables provide enough carbohydrates they need in their diet.

Ground Vegetables

Ground fruits and vegetables help regulate their blood sugar and act as a source of antioxidants and enzymes.

Complete & Balanced Formulation

Similar to the FDA and USDA who check that food being sold and fed to use are nutritional appropriate, dogs have AAFCO. Dog food that is AAFCO approved means that they have met the nutritional minimum.

HPP Treatment

HPP means high-pressure processing and is the kill step of any potential pathogens. This process is yet to be required but is considered best practice to the FDA.

Read More: Are Some Raw Dog Food Safer Than Others?

Now, we know that this may be a lot to take in but here's some good news! The food at Cali Raw not only meets all these standards but we go above and beyond. Our formulas, especially our puppy formulas, not only meet AAFCO requirements but exceeds it. Meaning that we are meeting the nutritional standards needed by dogs and not just the minimum. Our BARF menu also goes through HPP so that you don't need to worry about the bad and only have all the good stuff.

How To Start A Raw Diet For Dogs?

Feeding your dog a raw diet is easier than it seems. Especially when you have the Cali Raw team by your side!

Steps To Start A Raw Food Diet For Dogs:

1. Calculate how much you need to feed per day
2. Order the amount recommended from your results
3. Defrost 24-48 hours before feeding
4. Follow the 20/50/80/100 transition from kibble

For More, Read Our: Transition Guide or Raw Dog Food For Beginners | Guide

A species-appropriate diet will give your dog exactly what they need, and nothing more, to thrive. When your dog eats a processed diet, they miss out on vital nutrients and health benefits. A BARF Diet will bring them enhanced health and longevity. Give your dog the diet they need and deserve and reap the benefits together!